Pennyroyal Academy

A parent should reach for this book when their child is struggling with the pressure of high expectations or feels like they do not fit the traditional mold of success. It is a perfect choice for the pre-teen who is tired of 'pretty' stereotypes and wants to explore what true bravery and grit look like in the face of daunting challenges. The story follows Evie, a girl with no memory of her past, as she enrolls in a rigorous academy that trains princesses to be warriors against a looming threat of witches and dragons. While the setting is a fairy tale school, the emotional core is rooted in the grueling work of self-discovery and the resilience required to overcome imposter syndrome. It reframes the concept of a 'princess' from a status of birth to a title earned through discipline, compassion, and courage. Parents will appreciate how the book balances high-stakes fantasy adventure with a grounded message about finding one's tribe and defining one's own identity. It is best suited for readers aged 10 to 14 who enjoy complex world-building and character-driven quests.